CPL MICHAEL FOX

McLendon-Chisholm, TX

Mission Accomplished on Dec. 18, 2014

Marine Corporal Michael Fox was on his third deployment when he sustained the traumatic amputations of both of his legs in an improvised explosive device (IED) blast in Musa Qala, Afghanistan on Nov. 15, 2011.

The Fire Team Leader, also Echo Co. 2nd Battalion, 4th Marines, Cpl Fox and his men were looking for a suitable location to create a new patrol base. Upon entering a compound that looked like a good choice for the new base, Cpl Fox made his way to the top of a berm that appeared to have a good vantage point over the Wadi (dried creek-bed) and the surrounding hills. Turning to call to his designated marksman and alert him of the vantage point, Cpl Fox heard a blast as he was thrown into the air; dirt and darkness surrounding him. Hearing his squad calling to him, he realized that he could not move.

As the squad began administering life saving first aid, Michael learned that he had lost his legs. With four tourniquets in place, and a Landing Zone secured, a helicopter was able to transport him to Camp Bastion. Falling unconscious shortly after arriving at the local hospital, Cpl Fox was next transported to Landstuhl, Germany where he endured multiple surgeries while in the ICU to stabilize him for his eventual transport stateside.

Arriving at Walter Reed National Medical Center in Bethesda, M.d., Michael endured many more surgeries over the course of the next month. Eventually transferred to Balboa Naval Medical Center in San Diego for treatments and therapies, Michael remained there until his retirement.

Michael enjoys spending time with his wife Erica and hopes to return to college and study either automotive or photography. A racing enthusiast, he enjoys racing at the local drag strips. He also loves deep sea fishing. In November 2017, Michael and Erica became parents to a baby boy named Grant. Michael says his Homes For Our Troops home is going to give his son a head start in life. “Without any obstacles or barriers, I can get to him more quickly, which is safer for the both of us. The house does not limit me and I can be more effective as a parent. Our home is a blessing.”

Receiving a specially adapted home has been beneficial for Michael. He is now able to host holidays and family gatherings, and can heal in a safe environment. He would like to thank everyone who supported the building of his home. “The home allows me to be financially sound and I can pursue my hopes and dreams all with an improved daily quality of life,” he says.